Despite all the attention given to the giant panda in recent years, there is much that we do not know about its biology, social interaction and habitat. We need more scientific study

to improve our understanding of how it lives and interacts with its environment. We also need to understand that environment and the other species living within it more clearly. This will help us to preserve them and better prepare captive pandas to resume living in the wild.

As a first step, the InternationalCenter is currently supporting a multi-part research effort focusing on the giant panda and its habitat. This effort will involve significant participation by members of our Science Committee and other distinguished international scientists.

As we gather more resources, we will expand our research to other endangered species and the ecosystems in which they live. There is much to be done!